Weld strikes again as Diplomat leaves it late

Diplomat lunged late to land the spoils in the Tote Trifect Rollover Handicap at Galway.

It was a fifth winner of the week for Dermot Weld as the American-bred gelding got the nod in a tight photo finish.

There was drama early in the race as the reins broke on front-runner Captain Cullen and Colin Keane did well to steer his mount. Brog Deas took over with two-and-a-half furlongs to run but was tackled by 7/2 favourite Our Conor turning for home.

The later fought doggedly to wear down his rival only to be denied on the line as Diplomat (4/1) flew home for a nose victory.

"I thought he had a very good chance as he's a soft ground horse and stays well," said Weld afterwards.

"It was a brillliant ride from Pat Smullen as the horse changed his legs a few times coming down the hill. He took his time, got his balance and came home very strongly.

"He may go to Naas next Monday."

Weld also revealed that Galway specialist Rock Critic, who was fourth in the Topaz Mile yesterday, may run in a maiden hurdle on Saturday with Robbie McNamara riding.